Quick Shots: Rockford IceHogs now all grown up

Goalie Jason LaBarbera has been on hand for a month and can't believe how the Rockford IceHogs have changed during that time.

"There's been growth, like big-time growth," he said. "From the first time I've been here to now it's not even close how much better we are.

"There's a lot of confidence. Guys are playing fast, with a lot of poise and there's a lot of skill in that (locker) room. There are a lot of young guys who are learning how to be pros and they've made big strides."

Center Brandon Pirri, who has been here since 2010-11, also notices the differences.

"In my four years, we've always started out young and made mistakes like that. We always seem to figure it out by the end of the year. Maybe we're starting a little bit earlier than usual, which is a good thing to see."

Prediction time

If you get something in the mail from the IceHogs concerning the purchase of playoff tickets, go for it. Finally, the team will reach the postseason.

The dreaded asterisk that goes with that proclamation: Provided they don't get ambushed by injuries or call-ups.

As the roster stands, it is a team that knows it can win any game. Not hope it does or thinks it can. It knows and can't wait for the next victim, er, game.

Top trio?

At times, you will see Pierre-Marc Bouchard, Brandon Pirri and Jeremy Morin on the ice at the same time. Power plays for sure.

It would seem to be safe to say that the IceHogs have never had a more talented trio on the ice at the same time. Enjoy it while you can.

Bouchard backer

Brandon Pirri says Pierre-Marc Bouchard "makes NHL plays. It's a lot of fun. It's a trade where we didn't have to give anything up for (other than a fourth-round draft pick), so it's a good thing for down here."

Observation time

Watch how the 'Hogs respond going forward when teammates get boarded hard. See if they use good judgment on retaliation.

Conversely, watch how the opposition handles itself when a Rockford player rams someone hard.